Job Description: Production Animal Veterinary Technician
Position: Production Animal Veterinary Technician
Department: Veterinary Medicine – Veterinary Nursing
Reporting to: Veterinarian or Veterinary Nurse Supervisor
Job Summary:
The Production Animal Veterinary Technician plays a crucial role in supporting veterinary professionals in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of production animals. This position requires a strong background in veterinary medicine, with a focus on production animal health and welfare. The Veterinary Technician will work closely with veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and farm staff to provide comprehensive veterinary care and ensure the well-being of production animals.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Animal Health and Care:
- Assist veterinarians and veterinary nurses in performing routine health checks, vaccinations, and medical treatments on production animals.
- Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments following established protocols and guidelines.
- Monitor and record animal health and behavior, reporting any changes or concerns to the veterinarian or veterinary nurse.
- Assist in the management and care of sick or injured animals.
- Ensure proper handling and restraint techniques are employed to minimize stress and ensure the safety of both animals and staff.
2. Diagnostic Procedures:
- Assist veterinarians in conducting diagnostic procedures, such as blood sampling, fecal analysis, and laboratory tests.
- Operate and maintain medical equipment and instruments used in diagnostics.
- Prepare samples for laboratory testing and accurately record and report results.
3. Surgical Assistance:
- Prepare surgical suites, equipment, and instruments for surgical procedures.
- Assist veterinarians during surgical procedures, providing appropriate support and ensuring a sterile environment.
- Monitor anesthesia, vital signs, and recovery of animals post-surgery.
4. Animal Husbandry:
- Assist in the general care and maintenance of production animals, including feeding, watering, and cleaning.
- Ensure animals are kept in clean and comfortable environments, adhering to biosecurity protocols.
- Monitor and report any signs of disease or injury within the herd or flock.
- Assist in the implementation of herd health programs, including parasite control and vaccination regimes.
5. Documentation and Record-Keeping:
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of animal care, medical treatments, and diagnostic procedures.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and standards of practice.
- Assist in the preparation of reports and documentation related to animal health and welfare.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
- Degree or diploma in Veterinary Nursing or Animal Health Science.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in a veterinary practice, with a specific focus on production animals.
- Proficient knowledge of production animal husbandry, health, and welfare.
- Strong understanding of veterinary medical terminology, procedures, and protocols.
- Excellent animal handling and restraint skills.
- Ability to operate and maintain veterinary diagnostic and surgical equipment.
- Ability to work effectively in a team and collaborate with veterinary professionals.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.
- Proficient computer skills, including knowledge of veterinary software and record-keeping systems.
Note: This job description is intended to outline the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this role. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required.